Swinging sign apparatus

ABSTRACT

Apparatuses are disclosed, including apparatuses providing a rotatable sign configured with a base, a display panel, and a support, where a portion of the support defines a horizontal axis and is secured to the panel. The base may be configured to hold the support to allow rotation about the horizontal axis, the height of the horizontal axis of the support may be equal to or lower than a midpoint of the panel height. In addition, apparatuses are disclosed that include a counterweight attached to a support, where some or all of the counterweight may be below the horizontal axis of the support when the support is in an initial rotational position, such that it is disposed to return a sign back to its vertical orientation when in use.

TECHNICAL FIELD

Aspects of the disclosure relate to apparatuses and methods, including,in certain aspects, apparatuses for signs, in particular swinging orrotating signs. In some examples, the apparatus is portable and thecomponents thereof are rotatable and/or moveable in response to wind orother forces. In particular, certain examples relate to a portable signapparatus that comprises a panel displaying visual information attachedto a support, the support being attached to a base. The support mayinclude or be connected to a counterweight. The support and any attachedcomponents may be configured to rotate about a horizontal axis inresponse to, for example, high winds. The rotatability and/or movabilityof the panel and the support may prevent the wind or other forces fromknocking the sign over, while simultaneously providing a desirableaesthetic appearance for the overall apparatus and the displayed object,such as a sign or sign panel.

BACKGROUND

Conventional wind-resistant signs often rely on the overall weight ofthe sign to resist the force of the wind. Some conventional techniquesrely upon an elevated pivot point or rotational axis for the sign, forexample at or above a point two-thirds of the way up the total height ofthe sign. By keeping the majority of the sign's weight below the pivotpoint, the weight of this relatively larger portion of the signcounter-balances the upper portion of the sign (in this example theupper third of the sign), when the sign is affected by the wind. Thisresults, however, is a relatively large frame that may inhibit aviewer's ability to read the information on the sign, especially whennot viewing the sign head-on, that visually obscures or detracts fromthe information, and/or lowers the sign's overall aesthetic appeal.

Other wind-resistant signs may consist of a square frame where the panelhangs down from a horizontal bar across the top of the frame. Thisconfiguration, however, also inhibits full view of the information oradvertisement on the panel since the vertical posts that compose part ofthe frame inhibit full visibility of the panel from the sides andotherwise provide a visual distraction to the viewer.

Still other configurations of mobile, wind-resistant signs include signswith a minimally attractive base frame, and having a panel that isdirectly or indirectly secured to the bottom of the frame by heavy-dutysprings. The springs allow the panel to flex in high wind conditionspreventing the sign from getting blown over. However, when such a signconfiguration is placed on sloping terrain, the sign generally cannotachieve a fully upright configuration, as it typically remainsperpendicular to the ground regardless of the type or degree of incline.Such placement inhibits full view of the information or advertisement bya passerby when placed on such sloping or uneven terrain. Moreover,these setups generally require the use of multiple large, visuallyunappealing components.

To alleviate these possible inefficiencies and aesthetically unappealingconfigurations, it may be desirable to provide an apparatus that allowsfuller viewing of the sign and the visual information or advertisementdisplayed thereon, and less inhibited by vertical frame posts. Stillmore, it may be desirable to provide an apparatus that allows a signpanel to remain vertical when placed on uneven or sloped terrain, andthat returns to a desired orientation after being acted upon by wind orother physical forces (e.g. human manipulation). Such an apparatus willalso enhance and simplify the appearance of signs and portable signs.

SUMMARY

This Summary provides an introduction to some general concepts relatingto this disclosure in a simplified form that are further described belowin the Detailed Description. This Summary is not intended to identifykey features or essential features of the disclosure.

In accordance with one exemplary aspect, an apparatus is disclosed. Insome examples, the apparatus includes a base, a panel and a support. Insome examples, the panel has a first height at a bottom of the panel anda second height at a top of the panel. In certain embodiments, at leasta portion of the support defines a horizontal axis. In various examplesthe support is configured to secure the panel. In some embodiments thebase is configured to hold the support such that it may rotate about thehorizontal axis from an initial rotational position. In certainexamples, when the support is held by the base and the panel is securedby the support, a height of the horizontal axis of the support is equalto or lower than a third height, the third height being a midpointbetween the first height and the second height.

In some examples, the base comprises an exterior surface enclosing acounterweight attached to the support. In certain examples thecounterweight has a first mass, where all or substantially all of thefirst mass of the counterweight is disposed below the horizontal axis ofthe support when the support is in its initial rotational position. Insome embodiments, the first mass of the counterweight exceeds a secondmass disposed above the horizontal axis of the support when the supportis in its initial rotational position, the second mass being configuredto rotate with the support. In certain examples, the second masscomprises at least a portion of a mass of the panel.

In various embodiments, the counterweight comprises an exterior surfacedefining a reservoir. In certain examples, the reservoir is configuredto receive a ballast material. In some embodiments, the ballast materialcomprises a liquid medium, a solid material, or both. In variousembodiments, the counterweight is a solid object. In some examples, thecounterweight has a shape of a triangular prism or a substantiallysimilar shape. In various examples, the counterweight has a shape of aquadrilateral prism or a substantially similar shape.

In certain examples, the distance between the first height and thesecond height of the panel is about two feet. In various embodiments,the panel has a width of about three feet. In some embodiments, thedistance between the first height and the second height of the panel isbetween about twenty and twenty-four inches. In certain examples, thepanel has a width between about thirty-four and thirty-eight inches.

In various embodiments, the base comprises an access mechanismconfigured to provide selective access to the counterweight. In certainembodiments, the base and support are configured to allow a maximumrotation of around thirty degrees or less about the horizontal axis, ineither direction, from the initial rotational position. In variousexamples, when the support is held by the base and the panel is securedby the support, the horizontal axis of the support is equal to or lowerthan a fourth height, the fourth height being one third the distancefrom the first height at the bottom of the panel to the second height atthe top of the panel. In some embodiments, when the support is held bythe base and the panel is secured by the support, the height of thehorizontal axis of the support is substantially equal to the firstheight at the bottom of the panel. In certain examples, when the supportis held by the base and the panel is secured by the support, thehorizontal axis of the support is substantially adjacent to and disposedbelow the first height at the bottom of the panel.

In accordance with another aspect of the disclosure, an apparatus isdisclosed, the apparatus comprising a base, a support, and acounterweight attached to the support. In various exemplary embodiments,at least a portion of the support defines a horizontal axis. In someexamples, the support is configured to secure a panel. In certainembodiments, the counterweight is attached to the support. In exemplaryembodiments, the base is configured to hold the support such that it mayrotate about the horizontal axis from an initial rotational position. Incertain examples of the apparatus, the counterweight has a first mass,and at least a majority of the first mass of the counterweight isdisposed below the horizontal axis of the support when the support is inits initial rotational position. In some embodiments, the mass of thecounterweight disposed below the horizontal axis exceeds a second massdisposed above the horizontal axis of the support when the support is inits initial rotational position, the second mass being configured torotate with the support.

In various examples, the apparatus further comprises a panel having afirst height at a bottom of the panel and a second height at a top ofthe panel. In certain embodiments, when the support is held by the baseand the panel is secured by the support, the horizontal axis of thesupport is equal to or lower than a third height, the third height beinga midpoint between the first height and the second height. In someexamples, the base comprises an exterior surface enclosing thecounterweight. In certain embodiments, when the support is held by thebase and the panel is secured by the support, the horizontal axis of thesupport is substantially adjacent to and disposed below the first heightat the bottom of the panel.

In accordance with yet another aspect of the disclosure, an apparatus isdisclosed, the apparatus comprising a base, rotation means configured tobe connected to the base, an a counterweight. In some examples, therotation means are operably connected to one or more securing componentsconfigured to secure a panel having a first height at a bottom of thepanel, a second height at a top of the panel, and a width. In variousembodiments, the counterweight is configured to be operably connected tothe rotation means, the panel, or both. In some examples, when therotation means are connected to the base and the panel is secured, ahorizontal rotational axis of the rotation means has a height equal toor lower than a third height, the third height being a midpoint betweenthe first height and the second height of the panel.

In various examples of this aspect, when the rotation means areconnected to the base and the panel is secured by the rotation means,the horizontal rotational axis of the rotation means has a height equalto or lower than a fourth height, the fourth height being one third thedistance from the first height at the bottom of the panel to the secondheight at the top of the panel.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Exemplary embodiments of the disclosure will now be described by way ofexample only and with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of arotatable sign with a removable panel attached.

FIG. 2 shows an exploded perspective view of an exemplary embodiment ofa rotatable sign with a removable panel detached from a support, and thesupport detached from a counterweight that is separated from a base.

FIG. 3 shows a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of acounterweight attached to a support.

FIG. 4 shows a cross-sectional side view of the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 1 with the panel attached to the support and the support in aninitial rotational position.

FIG. 5 shows a cross-sectional side view of the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 4 with the panel attached to the support and the support rotatedabout the horizontal axis to a subsequent rotational position due to theforce of the wind.

FIG. 6 shows a perspective view of a sign apparatus in accordance withanother embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

In the following description of various examples of apparatuses,displays, signs, portable signs, and components thereof, and methods ofthis disclosure, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, whichform a part hereof, and in which are shown by way of illustrationvarious example structures and environments in which aspects of thedisclosure may be practiced.

It is to be understood that other structures and environments may beutilized and that structural and functional modifications may be madefrom the specifically described structures and methods without departingfrom the scope of the present disclosure. Moreover, the figures of thisdisclosure may represent the scale and/or dimensions according to one ormore embodiments, and as such contribute to the teaching of suchdimensional scaling. However, those skilled in the art will readilyappreciate that the disclosure herein is not limited to the scales,dimensions, proportions, and/or orientations shown in the figures.

The embodiments described herein provide, inter alia, apparatuses forsigns, portable signs or other advertising objects that are rotatable ormoveable in response to wind and/or other forces, the components of suchapparatuses, and methods of their use. In certain embodiments, theapparatus provides a portable sign including a surface or paneldisplaying textual and/or visual information. In various other examples,the apparatus may be used to display and/or keep erect other kinds ofobjects, including, but not limited to models, figures, statutes, andthe like.

In some examples the apparatus is modular and configured to fit and/orinteract with one or more other devices and/or components. Moreover, incertain examples two or more of the components described individuallybelow, or that are described as being operably or directly connected,may be a single unitary component. These and other aspects, features andadvantages of the disclosure or of certain embodiments of the disclosurewill be further understood by those skilled in the art from thefollowing description of exemplary embodiments.

In some examples, the apparatus comprises a base, a panel and a support.FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of anapparatus 10. In the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 1, the apparatusprovides a rotatable and portable sign. In this example, the apparatus10 includes a base 11, a panel 12, and a support 13 configured to securethe panel 12. In certain examples, the support and the panel are asingle unitary component, while in other embodiments these componentsare designed to be directly and or operably connected to each other whenassembled, for example (but not limited to) by an end user.

In some embodiments the base 11 is partially or entirely hollow and isconfigured to enclose one or more other components of the apparatus,while in other embodiments the base may be solid (such as, for example,the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 6). The base may consist of orcomprise any suitable material that is capable of sufficientlysupporting the other components of the apparatus. In some embodimentsthe base consists of or comprises one or more of wood, plastic, ceramic,or a metal and/or a metallic alloy, including but not limited to steeland/or aluminum.

The base may be a variety of shapes and sizes depending on the desiredterrain or surface the sign is to be placed on and/or the size and typeof the sign itself. For example, in certain embodiments the base can bea rectangle, cube, or other geometric prism. In some embodiments thebase is primarily a triangular prism in shape. In various examples, thebase includes a flat bottom surface or surfaces (e.g. two prisms, one oneach side of the apparatus) such that it will be flush or substantiallyflush to a surface, such as the ground, that it is placed on. In someexamples, such as the example shown in FIG. 1, the base is shaped andsized such that most of the apparatus components outside of the panelitself are contained within the base.

For example, in the embodiment of FIG. 1, only the panel and a portionof the support are visible outside of the base. This advantageouslyprovides a “clean” overall look in this and other embodiments, that doesnot detract from the visual information of the panel (or other displayobject) while still providing the movement and functionality describedbelow. In some embodiments, only a portion of the support and the objectto be displayed are visible above the base, providing a “floating” lookfor the object, such as a panel. In some embodiments, only a third ofthe height of the support or less is visible above the base, while inothers only a fourth or less, and in still others only a fifth or less,while in yet others only half of the height or less.

In certain embodiments the base includes an access mechanism configuredto provide selective access to the components inside the base. Incertain examples, the access mechanism provides selective access to thecounterweight. In some exemplary embodiments, the access mechanism maybe comprised of corresponding threaded components, zippers, magnets,snap fasteners, hook and loop fasteners, one or more buckles, buttons,screws, captive screws, bolts, captive nuts, latches, material flaps,hinged or sliding panels, doors, rubber gaskets, or a combinationthereof.

In certain embodiments, the primary access mechanism may comprise alock, keyed-latch, or electronic keypad/lock to prevent undesired orunauthorized access to the contents of the base 11. In various examples,the counterweight may also comprise an access mechanism, for example toallow a user to fill the counterweight with one or more ballastmaterials. In one example, a user may access the counterweight through alatch door or panel on the base, and then remove a threaded component,such as a cap, that may selectively interlock with threads on an fillstem on the counterweight. In this example, the user could then pour aliquid ballast material into the counterweight, re-secure the cap, andre-secure the base access door, such that the apparatus is then readyfor use.

In some examples, the support is configured to directly or indirectlysecure or hold one or more objects displaying visual material, such as asign panel. The visual materials may be textual and or graphical/ and insome examples the visual material provides an advertisement. In someexamples, the support may consist of or comprise plastic, ceramic, wood,or a metal and/or a metallic alloy, including but not limited to steeland/or aluminum. In certain examples, at least a portion of the supportdefines a horizontal axis. In some examples, the support comprises anelongated member or an elongated portion along the horizontal axis. Incertain examples the elongated portion is cylindrical, while in othersit comprises one or more flat surfaces.

The support may comprise one or more securing components configured tosecure another object, such as a sign panel, such that it is disposedabove the horizontal axis when the support is attached to the base andin its initial rotational position. In some embodiments, the securingcomponents comprise one or more clamps, clips, apertures, extensionarms, fingers, or protrusions, tabs, detents, threads, or resilientmaterials. In various examples, the one or more securing components areconfigured to interact with a corresponding component on an object, suchas a panel (e.g. corresponding threads or corresponding tab and detentstructures) while in others the one or more securing components areconfigured to interact with an edge or a portion of an object/ panel(e.g. a channel or aperture designed to accept the entire bottom edge ofa panel, or one or more extensions designed to extend into the interiorof a panel). In some examples, apertures or indentations are configuredto receive a portion of a connector component that is attached to theobject/panel.

In the example of FIG. 1, the base 11 comprises an aperture 14 and thesecuring components of the support 13 are extension arms 15. Theaperture allows the extension arms 15 of the support 13 to extendthrough and above the aperture opening. In some embodiments, the panelmay include openings or slits. In these examples, panel slides onto theextension arms for attachment to the support 13. In some embodiments,however, the panel may comprise extension arms designed to go intocorresponding apertures or recesses in the support. In certainembodiments, the extension arms can include any of the featuresdescribed above in reference to the support itself, and vice versa,and/or may comprises buttons, snaps, hook and loop fasteners, screws,bolts, nuts, rivets, magnets, or other attachment means to secure theremovable panel. In certain embodiments, panel 12 can be secured to theextension arms 15 or support 13 by adhesives such as glue, epoxy, tape,rubber cement, or by chemical or mechanical weld.

The aperture 14 may have a variety of lengths and widths. In variousembodiments, the width of the aperture allows the support 13 to rotatein response to physical forces, for example when increased windvelocities are encountered and push on a sign connected to the support.In some examples, the aperture width generally provides enough space toallow rotation of the support and panel to rotate about 30 degrees toeither side of a horizontal axis. The rotation capability about thehorizontal access may allow the support and any connected object (e.g. apanel) to maintain a substantially perpendicular orientation to theground, or a relatively perpendicular orientation to the horizon whenthe apparatus 10 is placed on uneven terrain, or an inclined surface.

The panel may be any suitable material for displaying information,including textual and/or graphic and/or advertising information, orother visual material. In some examples, the panel 12 may consist of orcomprise plywood, metal, plastic, corrugated plastic, steel,carbon-fiber composite, aluminum, one or more writing surfaces such as achalk-board or white-board, one or more LED panels, one or more video ortelevision screens, or one or more surfaces designed to receive aprojection from a projector. In certain examples, some or all of thepanel consists of or comprises a weather and/or water and/or sunresistant material, such that it may efficiently convey visualinformation even after prolonged, accumulated exposure to the elements.

The panel may be any suitable size and shape depending on the needs ofthe user and/or the information or visual material being displayed. Incertain examples, the panel may have a variety of geometric shapesand/or sizes, for example a rectangle, a square, a trapezoid, or othergeometric shapes. In some examples the panel may have an irregular,non-symmetrical or non-geometric shape, or a shape comprising acombination of one or more other shapes (e.g. multiple geometricshapes). In certain examples, the panel has a first height at bottom ofthe panel and a second height at the top of the panel. In someembodiments the panel is primarily rectangular in shape.

The panel may have any dimensions that are appropriate for displayingvisual material, for example an advertisement. In certain examples, thepanel has a width of about three feet and/or a height of about two feet.In various embodiments, the panel has a first height equal to the bottomedge or bottom-most surface/portion of the panel (for example, if thepanel has a non-geometric shape), and a second height equal to the topedge of top-most surface/portion of the panel (for example, a point of apyramidal shaped panel, or the top portion of a radius when the upperportion of the panel is curved). In some examples, the panel has a widthmeasured from its side edges, or for the outward most extending surfacesof the side of the panel. Non-panel objects held by the apparatus mayhave similar dimensions and/or heights/widths and/or shapes.

In other examples, the panel has a width that ranges from about two toabout four feet and/or a height of about one to about three feet. In yetother examples, the width and/or height may be equal to or less than twofeet, equal to or less than eighteen inches, and/or equal to or lessthan one foot. In certain examples, the width and/or height may be equalto or more than three feet, equal to or more than five feet, and/orequal to or more than ten feet. In certain embodiments the total heightof the panel may be between twenty and twenty-four inches, and the panelwidth may be between thirty-four and thirty-eight inches. The thicknessof the panel may vary based on the materials used, the overallcharacteristics of the apparatus and/or the environment the panel isintended to be displayed in (e.g. type of exposure and/or weatherconditions). In some examples, the panel is about a quarter of an inchthick, while in others about half an inch thick, while in still othersit is about one inch thick, or more. In certain embodiments, the panelmay have a variable thickness.

In certain examples, the base comprises an exterior surface enclosing acounterweight attached to the support. In the example of FIG. 2, asupport module 20 is shown in an exploded view outside of the base 11.In some embodiments, the support module is composed of or comprises acounterweight 17 attached to the support 13. Support 13 may include ahorizontal brace or an elongated member. In this example, the supportcomprises an elongated member 16. In some embodiments, the elongatedmember defines the horizontal axis of the support. In various examples,when the support is held by the base, the support and any connectedcomponents may rotate about the horizontal axis. The counterweight maybe operably connected to the support, or may be integrally connected, orthe components may be a single unitary piece. The counterweight may beattached by any suitable means to the support. In certain embodiments,the counterweight 17 is attached to the support by weld, friction,adhesive, screw, bolt, or other conventional means. Moreover, theattachment may be direct or indirect. In some examples, onecounterweight is attached, while in other two or more counterweights areattached or otherwise connected.

In some embodiments, the counterweight comprises an exterior surfacematerial defining a reservoir. The reservoir may be configured toreceive a ballast material. In some of these embodiments, thecounterweight is substantially hollow. In certain examples, however, thecounterweight is a solid object, and in others embodiments thecounterweight includes one or more reservoirs or cavities designed tohold another material (e.g. ballast), such that a portion or portions ofthe counterweight are hollow while others are solid.

In certain embodiments, the counterweight is primarily a quadrilateralprism in shape. In other embodiments, the counterweight can be atriangular prism, cube, cylinder, sphere, or other geometricshape/prism. In various examples, the counterweight has a shape suchthat it has a relatively low center of mass when in use in the apparatusand oriented in the initial rotational position, such as a quadrilateralprism with a “point” of two sides meeting at the bottom of the prism, oran inverted “teardrop” shaped prism. In some exemplary embodiments, thecounterweight 17 is composed of or comprises a thermoplastic material, ametal and/or metallic alloy, including but not limited to steel, lead,tungsten, or aluminum, or wood.

In some exemplary embodiments, the counterweight's external surfacedefines an internal reservoir that is configured to receive a ballastmaterial. In certain embodiments the internal reservoir is defined by asecond material contained within or connected to an interior surface ofthe counterweight (e.g. the interior surface of the exterior surfacematerial) or another component or portion of the counterweight. Incertain examples, the second material consists of or comprises plastic,rubber, metal, tin, aluminum, ceramic, glass, or fabric.

The ballast material may comprise a liquid medium, a solid material, orboth. In certain embodiments the ballast is a liquid medium. In someembodiments the liquid medium can consist or comprise water, saline,anti-freeze, or other mixture. In various examples, the liquid mediummay comprise a relatively viscous (as compared to water) or a highviscosity component. In certain of these examples, the liquid ballastcomprises glycerine. In other examples, the liquid medium has a similaror lower viscosity as compared to water.

In other exemplary embodiments, the ballast is a solid material. In someembodiments the solid material can comprise sand, gravel, dirt, rocks,metal (e.g. lead) or another solid material. In yet other examples, theballast may comprise both solid and liquid components, includingembodiments where the ballast is a slurry. As described above, incertain embodiments, the base 11 may include an access mechanismconfigured to provide selective access to the counterweight 17. Accessto the counterweight may provide the user simplified filling andemptying of liquids or materials from the internal reservoir, forexample filling the counterweight when the sign is in a position to bevisually displayed and removing the ballast when the sign is desired tobe transported to another location or taken down. Removal of theinternal ballast increases the mobility of the sign 10 when it is to bemoved or relocated. This can further enhance the portability of theapparatus.

In various examples, the counterweight is partially solid, such that ithas enough mass so that, even if the reservoir is empty, it can stillfunction as a counterweight for at least some types and/or sizes ofpanels or other visual materials. For example, the counterweight maycomprise a solid material providing approximately 30% or less of thetotal counterweight mass when filled with a ballast material. In otherexamples, the solid material may provide approximately 40% or less ofthe total counterweight mass, and in still others approximately 60% orless of the total counterweight mass.

In certain embodiments, the counterweight has a mass of approximately 5pounds or more, in other approximately 7.5 pounds or more, and in stillothers approximately 10 pounds or more. These weights may reflect thetotal mass of the counterweight with the ballast included, in someexamples, and in others may reflect the weight of a solid or partiallysolid counterweight (including those that may accept additionalballast). In the examples of the counterweight including the reservoir,the amount of mass added by the ballast may vary depending on the sizeand volume of the reservoir, in addition to the type of ballast used. Incertain examples, the volume of the reservoir is selected so aparticular ballast material (e.g. water) adds approximately 3 or morepounds of mass, in others approximately 5 pounds or more, in othersapproximately 7.5 pounds or more, and in still others approximately 10pounds or more.

In some examples the counterweight has a first mass, where all orsubstantially all of the first mass of the counterweight is disposedbelow the horizontal axis of the support when the support is in itsinitial rotational position. In some examples, 90% or more of the massis disposed below the horizontal axis, while in others 80% or more, andin still others 70% or more is disposed below the horizontal axis. Invarious embodiments, the first mass of the counterweight exceeds asecond mass disposed above the horizontal axis of the support when thesupport is in its initial rotational position, the second mass beingconfigured to rotate with the support and comprising at least a portionof a mass of the panel. For example, the second mass may include any orall portions of any object or panel disposed above the horizontal axis(in the initial rotation apposition) as well as any portions of thesupport or any other components that are disposed above the axis in theinitial position.

Thus, if the first mass disposed below the axis, whether comprising theentire mass of the counterweight and optionally a ballast material, or asubstantial position of the counterweight mass, or further including aportion of the mass of the support from support positions or componentsdisposed below the axis, exceeds a second mass equal to the mass ofcomponents disposed above the axis, the apparatus will preferentiallyreorient to the initial rotational position. When wind or other physicalforces act upon the apparatus, the relatively larger lower mass will,due to gravitational forces, seek to return to the initial rotationposition.

The example of FIG. 2 further shows a base 11 including a plurality ofrotation positions 19. As described above, support 13 may include ahorizontal axis defined by an elongated member 16, or anotherstructure(s), that is attached to the rotation positions 19. In someembodiments, however, the support may lack a component or componentsthat is substantially coincident with the horizontal axis, and the axisis primarily defined solely by a line extending between the rotationpositions. For example, the support may include rotation means, such assmall extension arms extending into corresponding cavities in the base,but the support is otherwise lacking an elongated or cylindricalportion.

In certain embodiments, the support module 20 and attached panel 12 canrotate or swivel about the horizontal axis 16 when installed andconnected to the rotation positions 19. In this manner, the base may beconfigured to hold the support such that it may rotate about thehorizontal axis from an initial rotational position. In certainembodiments the components of the rotation positions 19 and/or rotationmeans comprise one or more hinges, bearings, swivel connections, and/orjoints. In some examples, the rotation positions and/or rotation meanscomprise ball bearings or other friction minimizing devices. Further, incertain embodiments, the ball bearings may be consist of or comprise oneor more metal and/or metallic alloys, such as steel, aluminum, ortitanium, ceramics, or plastics.

In the example of FIG. 3, support module 20 includes the support 13attached to the counterweight 17. In this example, the counterweight 17includes a support slot 18 where the support is mated to thecounterweight so the assembled whole is configured to counterbalance theweight of the upper portions of an object or objects connected to ormounted above the support, such as a sign panel.

In some examples, the horizontal rotational axis is coincident anddefined by the placement of horizontal, elongated member 16, whensecured to rotation positions 19. As described in more detail elsewherein the present disclosure, in other embodiments that axis may be definedby a line between the rotation positons of the base and/or by othercomponents such as rotation means (for example, as illustrated in theembodiment of FIG. 6). In certain embodiments, when the apparatus isassembled the horizontal member 16 has a height equal to its horizontalaxis of rotation. In some examples, the axis of rotation may have aheight midway between the bottom of the panel and the top of the panel,when the apparatus is assembled, or lower. In another embodiment, thethird height of the horizontal axis is substantially equal to the bottomof the panel (e.g. within an inch or less, or within half an inch orless), or lower, when the panel is attached. In yet another embodiment,when the support is held by the base and the panel is secured by thesupport, the height of the horizontal axis is substantially adjacent toand disposed below the bottom of the panel.

For example, the height of the axis may be approximately one inch belowthe bottom of the panel, where the securing components span the interimdistance. In other embodiments, the axis may be even lower, which mayfurther provide a “floating” look for the panel. For example, the axismay be approximately three inches or more below the bottom edge, or sixinches or more below the bottom edge. This embodiments may provide aparticularly interesting visual look when the securing components arethin, e.g. arms that are a quarter of an inch or less in width, or halfan inch or less in width, or otherwise difficult to see (for example,when having a color selected to be similar to a particular backgroundwhere the sign will be displayed). In some examples, it is contemplatedthat there are no additional components of the apparatus, outside of thepanel or visual object itself, that are visible above the bottom of thepanel (e.g. embodiments where arms from the support extend into thepanel from its bottom edge). In certain examples, there are noadditional components of the apparatus, outside of the panel itself,that are visible above the midpoint of the panel, and in others nocomponents visible above a height a third of the distance from thebottom to the top of a panel.

In some examples, the weight distributed below the horizontal axis maybe composed primarily or entirely of counterweight 17 and a portion ofthe support 13. In certain embodiments, the entire counterweight isdisposed below the horizontal axis when the components are in theinitial rotation position. In other examples, some of the counterweightmay be disposed at a height equal to or above the horizontal axis,depending on shape and method of attachment, as long as enough of thecounterweight is disposed below the horizontal axis such that it, alongwith the any portions of the support disposed beneath the axis and anyother connected components beneath the axis, provide a sufficient massto counter the weight of the panel and/or other components or partsdisposed above the horizontal axis. In certain examples, all orsubstantially all of the counterweight mass is disposed below thehorizontal axis of the support when the support is in its initialrotational position, and the mass of the counterweight exceeds the totalmass disposed above the horizontal axis of the support when the supportis in its initial rotational position, where each mass above and belowthe horizontal axis is configured to rotate with the support.

This total weight of the counterweight and/or other components maydefine a first mass that is disposed below the horizontal axis, incertain embodiments. A second mass may consist of the weight of thepanel 12 and a portion of the support, e.g. the extension arms. Thesecond mass may be disposed above the horizontal axis. Such a massdistribution may allow the support 13 to keep the panel erect in aninitial rotational position, even when the apparatus is placed on unevenor sloping terrain. Further, the support rotates about the horizontalaxis when wind velocities create enough of a moment to impact thecounterbalance.

In certain exemplary embodiments, the base 11 and support 13 areconfigured to allow a maximum rotation of about 30 degrees, in eitherdirection, about the horizontal axis defined by the horizontal member16. In other exemplary embodiments apparatus may be configured toprovide a maximum rotation may be about 45 degrees, or less, to eitherside of the horizontal axis, while in others about 30 degrees of less,or 20 degrees of less. In yet other examples where the base does notrestrict the rotation by enclosing the counterweight (for example, theexemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 6), it may exceed 90 degrees abouteither side of the horizontal axis. In some examples, the apparatus maycomprise additional components that restrict rotation, such asprotrusions blocking additional movement, or may utilize hinges or othercomponents that are only capable of a defined rage of rotation. In otherexamples, the apparatus may comprise springs or other resilient and/orelastomeric materials that are disposed to urge the components backtowards the initial rotational position when a certain degree ofrotation is reached (e.g. for example thirty degrees or more from theinitial rotational position).

FIG. 4 shows a cross-sectional side view of an exemplary embodiment ofthe apparatus. In this example, counterweight 17 includes an internalreservoir filled with a liquid medium 21. Further, the support 13 isheld by the base 11 and the panel 12 is secured by the support 13, thehorizontal axis 16 of the support is substantially adjacent to anddisposed below the first height at the bottom of the panel on a levelsurface. The counterbalance 17 holds the support 13 and panel 12 in aperpendicular orientation to the level surface and this defines theinitial rotational position of about 0 degrees. Other examples mayinclude initial positions from other angles depending upon the size andshape of the base and/or the incline of the terrain where the apparatusis placed.

FIG. 5 shows an example of the support 13 is held by the base 11 and thepanel 12 is secured by the support 13 and the configuration has rotatedroughly 15 degrees about the horizontal axis due to the force of thewind. Such a configuration may prevent the apparatus from getting blownover. In this example, counterweight 17 is filled with ballast 21 andhas a mass greater than the mass above the horizontal axis. Thisconfiguration may keep the panel 12 erect and visible in the presence ofwind, or after other physical forces act on the panel, as the relativelylarger mass will always be disposed to rotate back to its lowest pointdue to gravitational forces, i.e. the initial rotational position. Thus,the counterweight allows reorientation of the support and any connectedcomponents, such as a panel, to their initial position. In someexamples, the counterweight also provides enough mass to the apparatusto prevent it from easily moved or getting blown over in high windsituations.

In another aspect of the disclosure, an apparatus is disclosed, theapparatus comprising a base and a support, where at least a portion ofthe support defines a horizontal axis and wherein the support isconfigured to secure a panel, and a counterweight attached to thesupport. In some examples of this aspect, the base is configured to holdthe support such that it may rotate about the horizontal axis from aninitial rotational position, and the counterweight has a first mass,where at least a majority of the first mass of the counterweight isdisposed below the horizontal axis of the support when the support is inits initial rotational position, and where the mass of the counterweightdisposed below the horizontal axis exceeds a second mass disposed abovethe horizontal axis of the support when the support is in its initialrotational position, the second mass being configured to rotate with thesupport.

In certain examples of this aspect, the apparatus further comprises apanel having a first height at a bottom of the panel and a second heightat a top of the panel. In some examples, when the support is held by thebase and the panel is secured by the support, the horizontal axis of thesupport is equal to or lower than a third height, the third height beinga midpoint between the first height and the second height. In yet otherexamples, the base comprises an exterior surface enclosing thecounterweight. In some examples, when the support is held by the baseand the panel is secured by the support, the horizontal axis of thesupport is substantially adjacent to and disposed below the first heightat the bottom of the panel.

FIG. 6 shows a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a portablesign apparatus 10 a, where this exemplary embodiment does not include abase that encloses other components of the apparatus, such as thecounterweight. This embodiment includes panel 12 a attached rotationmeans 26, which in this embodiment are arms or protrusions configured torotate via an attachment to a base 11 a, for example by insertion into acorresponding cavity or bearing. In this example, rotation means 26define the horizontal axis in this embodiment. Counterweight 17 a isattached to the counterweight brace 28 which is attached at each end tosupport 13 a. In this example, base 11 a comprises legs 30 that attachedto feet 31. A lower horizontal brace 25 is situated above thecounterweight 27, but this additional brace is not required. In exampleswith the additional brace, the counter weight may be partially orentirely disposed beneath the lower horizontal brace 25, or between anoptional counterweight brace 28 and the lower brace 25. Similar to theembodiments described above, rotation means 26 attach to the rotationpositions 19 a, and may comprise or consist of any of the structuredescribed above, or similar structures. This advantageously providesother examples of apparatuses that display panels or other objectswithout large components (such as a frame extending above the midpointof the object or panel) that detract from the object, while stillallowing the desired rotation and the reorientation functionality.Moreover, these embodiments provide the capability of increased rotationcompared to at least some of the embodiments using a base enclosingother elements, and the base itself could limit the possible degrees ofrotation (as the counterweight cannot rotate through the sides of thebase). Here, advantageously, more rotation is possible as compared tocertain embodiments, but the similar weight and mass distribution androtation axis still provide beneficial functionality.

In some embodiments with the exposed counterweight or counterweights,the counterweight(s) may include additional visual material orinformation, and such may be part of an integrated visual display ascombined with the visual material on the rotating object or panel. Otherembodiments may have simple or uniformly colored visual components so asto focus an observer's eyes on the desired visual information and/oradvertisement.

In accordance with another aspect, an apparatuses is disclosed, theapparatus comprising a base, rotation means configured to be connectedto the base, wherein the rotation means are operably connected to one ormore securing components configured to secure a panel having a firstheight at a bottom of the panel, a second height at a top of the panel,and a width, and a counterweight configured to be operably connected tothe rotation means, the panel, or both. The rotation means may consistof or comprise any of the components described above (for example,components of the rotation positions and/or the support) and/orreflected in the example figures. In some examples, when the rotationmeans are connected to the base and the panel is secured, a horizontalrotational axis of the rotation means has a height equal to or lowerthan a third height, the third height being a midpoint between the firstheight and the second height of the panel. In various examples, when therotation means are connected to the base and the panel is secured by therotation means, the horizontal rotational axis of the rotation means hasa height equal to or lower than a fourth height, the fourth height beingone third the distance from the first height at the bottom of the panelto the second height at the top of the panel.

These descriptions of the portable sign apparatus are merely exemplary.Embodiments of the apparatus may comprise any of the features describedabove in reference to the exemplary embodiments of the apparatus. Incertain embodiments, the apparatus comprises additional combinations orsubstitutions of some or all of the components described above.Moreover, additional and alternative suitable variations, forms andcomponents for the apparatus will be recognized by those skilled in theart given the benefit of this disclosure.

In another aspect of the disclosure, methods are provided. In someexamples, an apparatus is placed in the desired location. The apparatusmay be assembled in the desired location (e.g. the panel secured to thesupport, and the support being inserted or otherwise mounted into thebase). Some embodiments of the method include partial prior assembly,while others contemplate transport of a fully assembled apparatus. Theballast may be added to the counterweight reservoir at the desiredlocation, anchoring the sign in the chosen location and providing theresistance to increased wind velocities or other physical forces (i.e.human manipulation).

In some examples, the ballast is added before transport to the desiredlocation, either as a stand-alone action or as part of a partial orcomplete assembly, while in others it is added on site. Thecounterweight and/or reservoir may be accessed via a base accessmechanism to provide the ballast. In some examples, after displaying thesign or panel for the desired amount of time (e.g. a business day orduring business hours) the counterweight reservoir is emptied of ballastto facilitate easier mobility and relocation of the apparatus. In otherexamples, the sign is merely moved and/or dissembled.

These method descriptions are merely exemplary. In certain embodiments,the method may include additional combinations or substitutions of someor all of the steps described above. Moreover, additional andalternative suitable variations, forms, features and components for themethod will be recognized by those skilled in the art given the benefitof this disclosure. Still more, any of the features, forms andcomponents discussed in the embodiments providing examples of theapparatuses, signs, counterweights, and/or fillable weight reservoirsmay be features of one or more embodiments of these method aspects.

Any of the features or components discussed in the embodiments providingexamples of the method aspects may be features of embodiments of theapparatus, and vice versa. Moreover, any of the steps of embodiments ofthe method aspects may be performed by embodiments of the apparatus.Moreover, additional and alternative suitable variations, steps andfeatures for the methods will be recognized by those skilled in the artgiven the benefit of this disclosure.

The present disclosure is disclosed above and in the accompanyingdrawings with reference to a variety of examples and embodiments. Thepurpose served by the disclosure, however, is to provide examples of thevarious features and concepts related to the disclosure, not to limitthe scope of the disclosure.

What is claimed is:
 1. An apparatus comprising: a base; a panel having afirst height at a bottom of the panel and a second height at a top ofthe panel; and a support, wherein at least a portion of the supportdefines a horizontal axis and wherein the support is configured tosecure the panel; wherein the base is configured to hold the supportsuch that the support may rotate about the horizontal axis from aninitial rotational position; and wherein the base further comprises anexterior surface enclosing a counterweight attached to the support; andwherein, when the support is held by the base and the panel is securedby the support, a height of the horizontal axis of the support is equalto or lower than a third height, the third height being a midpointbetween the first height and the second height.
 2. The apparatus ofclaim 1, wherein the counterweight has a first mass; wherein all orsubstantially all of the first mass of the counterweight is disposedbelow the horizontal axis of the support when the support is in itsinitial rotational position; and wherein the first mass of thecounterweight exceeds a second mass disposed above the horizontal axisof the support when the support is in its initial rotational position,the second mass being configured to rotate with the support andcomprising at least a portion of a mass of the panel.
 3. The apparatusof claim 2, wherein the counterweight comprises an exterior surfacedefining a reservoir and wherein the reservoir is configured to receivea ballast material.
 4. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein the ballastmaterial comprises a liquid medium, a solid material, or both.
 5. Theapparatus of claim 3, wherein the base comprises an access mechanismconfigured to provide selective access to the counterweight.
 6. Theapparatus of claim 1, wherein the counterweight is a solid object. 7.The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the counterweight has a shape of atriangular prism or a quadrilateral prism.
 8. The apparatus of claim 1,wherein, when the support is held by the base and the panel is securedby the support, the height of the horizontal axis of the support isequal to or lower than the first height at the bottom of the panel. 9.The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the distance between the first heightand the second height of the panel is two feet; and wherein the panelhas a width of three feet.
 10. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein thedistance between the first height and the second height of the panel isbetween twenty and twenty-four inches, and wherein the panel has a widthbetween thirty-four and thirty-eight inches.
 11. The apparatus of claim1, wherein the base and support are configured to allow a maximumrotation of thirty degrees or less about the horizontal axis, in eitherdirection, from the initial rotational position.
 12. The apparatus ofclaim 1, wherein, when the support is held by the base and the panel issecured by the support, the horizontal axis of the support is equal toor lower than a fourth height, the fourth height being one third thedistance from the first height at the bottom of the panel to the secondheight at the top of the panel.
 13. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein,when the support is held by the base and the panel is secured by thesupport, the height of the horizontal axis of the support issubstantially equal to the first height at the bottom of the panel. 14.The apparatus of claim 1, wherein, when the support is held by the baseand the panel is secured by the support, the horizontal axis of thesupport is substantially adjacent to and disposed below the first heightat the bottom of the panel.
 15. An apparatus comprising: a base; asupport, wherein at least a portion of the support defines a horizontalaxis and wherein the support is configured to secure a panel; and acounterweight attached to the support; wherein the base is configured tohold the support such that the support may rotate about the horizontalaxis from an initial rotational position; and wherein the base furthercomprises an exterior surface enclosing the counterweight attached tothe support; wherein the counterweight has a first mass; wherein atleast a majority of the first mass of the counterweight is disposedbelow the horizontal axis of the support when the support is in itsinitial rotational position; and wherein the mass of the counterweightdisposed below the horizontal axis exceeds a second mass disposed abovethe horizontal axis of the support when the support is in its initialrotational position, the second mass being configured to rotate with thesupport.
 16. The apparatus of claim 15 further comprising a panel havinga first height at a bottom of the panel and a second height at a top ofthe panel; wherein, when the support is held by the base and the panelis secured by the support, the horizontal axis of the support is equalto or lower than a third height, the third height being a midpointbetween the first height and the second height.
 17. The apparatus ofclaim 16, wherein, when the support is held by the base and the panel issecured by the support, the horizontal axis of the support issubstantially adjacent to and disposed below the first height at thebottom of the panel.
 18. The apparatus of claim 15, wherein, when thesupport is held by the base and the panel is secured by the support, theheight of the horizontal axis of the support is equal to or lower thanthe first height at the bottom of the panel.
 19. An apparatuscomprising: a base; rotation means configured to be connected to thebase, wherein the rotation means are operably connected to one or moresecuring components configured to secure a panel having a first heightat a bottom of the panel, a second height at a top of the panel, and awidth; and a counterweight configured to be operably connected to therotation means, and below the panel; wherein, when the rotation meansare connected to the base and the panel is secured, a horizontalrotational axis of the rotation means has a height equal to or lowerthan a third height, the third height being a midpoint between the firstheight and the second height of the panel, and wherein, when therotation means are connected to the base and the panel is secured, andthe panel is in an initial, substantially upright rotational positionthe rotation means, the counterweight, the one or more securingcomponents, and any connecting components between any of thesecomponents are not visible above the first height at the bottom of thepanel.
 20. The apparatus of claim 19, wherein, when the rotation meansare connected to the base and the panel is secured by the rotationmeans, the horizontal rotational axis of the rotation means has a heightequal to or lower than the first height at the bottom of the panel; andwherein, when the rotation means are connected to the base and the panelis secured, and the panel is in an initial, substantially uprightrotational position, no components of the apparatus, with the exceptionof the panel itself, are visible above the first height at the bottom ofthe panel.